Ukrainian military units continue to hold positions in the northern regions of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad, according to Vladimir Polyovyi, head of communications for the 7th Rapid Reaction Corps of the Air Assault Forces. He described these areas as critical points along the frontline.
Polyovyi stated that Ukrainian forces are tasked with maintaining their defensive lines despite ongoing attempts by Russian troops to advance both to the north and south of their positions. He noted that the primary focus of the enemy’s efforts is currently on the town of Hryshyne, with movements reported from the south, while the north sees attempts to encircle Ukrainian positions from the direction of Rodynske.
The situation in Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad is described as extremely challenging, with Ukrainian forces reportedly losing control of key heights in the area. Russian units have been able to establish a presence within the towns, deploying direct strike teams equipped with FPV drones.
“Currently, the enemy has the advantage in Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad, controlling our logistical routes while our pilots have had to withdraw,” Polyovyi explained. He emphasized that this situation limits the Ukrainian military’s ability to effectively retaliate against the enemy’s use of widely deployed weaponry, particularly FPV drones.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted earlier that there has been no evidence of Ukrainian military activity in Pokrovsk since late January, suggesting that Russian forces may have taken control of the entire city. However, ISW also pointed out that despite this capture, Russian troops have not been able to leverage their gains to achieve significant operational success, indicating that the complete takeover of the Donetsk region by Russia is not inevitable.
The campaign for Pokrovsk, which had a pre-war population of around 60,000, has been ongoing for nearly two years. Russian forces began their offensive on the city in February 2024, following the capture of Avdiivka, located approximately 39 kilometers southeast of Pokrovsk.
According to ISW analysts, Russian troops gained control of most of Pokrovsk only in December 2025, a full 21 months after initiating frontal assaults on the city. Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has not confirmed the capture of Pokrovsk by Russian forces or the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the city.
Ukrainian forces are holding their ground in Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad, facing significant challenges from advancing Russian troops. While the situation remains critical, recent assessments indicate that Russian gains have not led to broader operational successes in the region.